Camping near Haskell, New Jersey places visitors in the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains where elevations range from 300-1,400 feet across the region's camping areas. The landscape features dense deciduous forests of oak, maple, and birch with numerous streams and small lakes. Spring brings variable conditions with nighttime temperatures that can drop into the 30s through early May.
What to do
Kayaking on lakes: Sebago Cabin Camp offers lake access with rentals available. "This place is only an hour away from NYC with so much to do and see. These cabins are VERY rustic, four walls, a cot, and a fridge. You still feel like you are 'roughing it' but with the convenience of a fridge," reports Sara P.
Rock scrambling on trails: The challenging terrain near Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #1 rewards hikers with panoramic views. One camper notes, "This site is about 2 miles into the hike. This is a great spot to set up camp because it has a wide area and an amazing view. You will find the site right next to the American Flag at the top of the mountain."
Weekend activities: Larger campgrounds organize structured events. "Sebago has a ton of activities like outdoor movies and communal bonfires on weekends. I was told by ranger Joe they also do Karaoke nights too," states Sara P., highlighting the social aspects available beyond hiking.
What campers like
Easy access to water: At Stonetown Circular trail Primitive #2, campers appreciate stream proximity. "This site is about 4 miles into the hike. This is a nice spot to set up camp because it is right next to a flowing stream with fresh water. The site is marked by a sign on a tree that says 'The Island'," explains one reviewer.
Spread-out sites: Campers consistently mention the spaciousness at Beaver Pond Campground. "The biggest positive about Beaver Pond is how spread out it was. You definitely feel like you have your own space and are not camping on top of your neighbor," states Ethan K., who also appreciated the "communal sink which made it very convenient and easy to wash dishes and fill up water."
Platform tent sites: Elevated camping surfaces are valued in this sometimes damp region. "Many of the camping options were on platforms which is especially nice if it recently rained or if you are expecting rain during your stay," notes one Beaver Pond camper, addressing the practical advantage of raised sites.
What you should know
Bear activity: Wildlife management is crucial when camping in this region. "Welcome to Bear Mountain" grumbles the park ranger as he sits in complete darkness! He is in his ranger hut, checking in the late evening arrivals to the campground... He offers us a highlighted map to our site, wishes us a good stay, and gives us the run down on bear activity in the area," reports a Beaver Pond camper.
Varying noise levels: Campground atmospheres differ dramatically across the Haskell region. "There is a constant buzz in the air of conversation, music, laughter and shrieking toddlers. Quiet time at night is laughable as the enjoyment of being in nature rages on into the early morning," notes Steve W. about Beaver Pond's sometimes lively environment.
Cell service gaps: Connectivity varies widely around Haskell. "Absolutely zero phone service (for T-Mobile) which was AMAZING," mentions a Campgaw Mountain Reservation visitor, seeing the disconnection as a positive feature.
Tips for camping with families
Check bathroom accessibility: At Wawayanda State Park, facilities can be limited. "It is off the beaten path without any running water or showers within walking distance. There is a lake at this campground that does have showers so I would recommend using those but if camping in the off season they may not be open," explains John C.
Consider trail difficulty: When backpacking with children, evaluate terrain challenges. For Stonetown Circular trail, one camper advises: "The only difficult thing about this site is that it is at the top of a fairly difficult rock scramble. I would advise packing light if making camp at this site because a heavy pack would make this scramble up the mountain even harder."
Look for dedicated activity areas: Camp Glen Gray offers family-focused amenities. "Cabins are always clean and stocked with firewood. Lots of hiking trails. Trading post is well stocked and volunteers are always friendly and able to answer any questions," notes Christopher M., highlighting the camp's family-friendly approach.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup locations: At Mahlon Dickerson Reservation, water access requires planning. "Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our rv connection," explains one RVer.
Watch for restrictions: Local regulations vary across campgrounds. "FYI.... Campground rules do not list anything about alcohol on the website or the emailed rules given after reservation, however there is a alcohol prohibited sign as you enter," notes a Mahlon Dickerson camper.
Consider site surfaces: Mahlon Dickerson offers well-maintained sites for RVs. "The campsites are paved and mostly level. They are wooded and large. Water and electric hookups and a dump station. Convenient for hiking and exploring, it's also only a 20 minute drive to a large mall in Rockaway," shares Jeff W.
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